Article carriers and blanks therefor

ABSTRACT

Aspects of the disclosure relate to article carriers ( 90; 190 ) for forming a package and blanks ( 10; 110 ) for forming the article carriers ( 90; 190 ). The blank ( 10; 110 ) comprises at least one panel ( 12; 112 ) having at least one article engaging structure (RT 1 , RT 2 ). The at least one article engaging structure (RT 1 , RT 2 ) comprises an article receiving aperture (AP 1 , AP 2 ) and an annular series of tabs ( 14, 30; 114, 114  A) formed around the article receiving aperture (AP 1 , AP 2 ). The annular series of tabs ( 14, 30; 114, 114 A) is defined at least in part by plurality of radial cut lines ( 15, 31; 115, 131 ). The annular series of tabs ( 14, 30; 114, 114 A) is defined at least in part by plurality of circumferential cut lines ( 9, 11; 109, 111 ). At least a first one ( 31, 131 ) of the radial cut lines extends to a corresponding circumferential cut line ( 9, 109 ) and at least a second one ( 15; 115 ) of the radial cut lines stops short of a respective circumferential cut line ( 9, 109 ).

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to packages, to article carriers and toblanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, theinvention relates to a package comprising a carrier having a main panelincluding one or more apertures for receiving an article and handlestructure.

BACKGROUND

In the field of packaging it is known to provide cartons for carryingmultiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful forenabling consumers to transport, store and access a group of articlesfor consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartonsor carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible andcause as little wastage in the materials from which they are formed aspossible. Further considerations are the strength of the carton and itssuitability for holding and transporting a weight of grouped articles.It is desirable that the contents of the carton are securely held by thecarton and that the cartons or carriers are easy for a consumer to graspand carry.

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an article carrierfor substantially cylindrical articles having a minimalistic appearanceand having improved tear resistance and/or reduced deformation.

The present invention seeks to provide an improvement in the field ofcartons, typically formed from paperboard or the like.

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides an article carrier forpackaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises at leastone panel having at least one article engaging structure. The at leastone article engaging structure comprises an article receiving apertureand an annular series of tabs formed around the article receivingaperture. The annular series of tabs is defined at least in part byplurality of radial cut lines. The annular series of tabs is defined atleast in part by plurality of circumferential cut lines. At least afirst one of the radial cut lines extends to a correspondingcircumferential cut line and at least a second one of the radial cutlines stops short of a respective circumferential cut line.

Advantageously, deformation of a corner region of the main panel isreduced by providing at least one T-shaped cut in the article receivingstructure. The T-shaped cut is provided in the corner region.

Optionally, the at least one article receiving aperture is a corneraperture, and the at least first one of the radial cut lines ispositioned across from the respective corner of the at least one panelsuch that the at least first one of the radial cut lines extends fromthe corner aperture toward the corner.

Optionally, the at least one article receiving aperture is a corneraperture, and at least two of the annular series of tabs are separatedby a tabless area, the at least first one of the radial cut linesdefines part of at least one of the at least two of the annular seriesof tabs.

Optionally, the tabless area is positioned across from the respectivecorner of the at least one panel.

Optionally, the at least two of the annular series of tabs each have awidth dimension which is less than a width dimension of at least anotherone of the annular series of tabs.

Optionally, the at least first one of the radial cut lines defines partof each of at least two of the annular series of tabs, at least one ofthe at least two of the annular series of tabs has a width dimensionwhich is less than a width dimension of at least another one of theannular series of tabs.

A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier forpackaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises at leastone panel having at least one article engaging structure. The at leastone article engaging structure comprises an article receiving apertureand an annular series of tabs formed around the article receivingaperture. The annular series of tabs comprises a plurality of annularlyconnected tabs and a plurality of annularly disconnected tabs.

Optionally, the annularly disconnected tabs are partial tabs, whereineach annularly disconnected tab occupies a smaller portion of thecircumference of the at least one article engaging structure than aportion of the circumference of the at least one article engagingstructure occupied by one of the annularly connected tabs.

Optionally, an engaging edge of a first one of the partial tabs iscollinear with an engaging edge of a second adjacent one of the partialtabs.

Optionally, the partial tabs are arranged in pairs, each partial tab ofa pair comprises an engaging edge arranged collinearly with an engagingedge of the other one of the pair.

Optionally, the partial tabs are dimensioned such that an integer numberof partial tabs is equivalent to an integer number of annularlyconnected tabs.

Optionally, the annular series of tabs is interrupted by a cutaway, thecutaway occupies a portion of the circumference of the at least onearticle engaging structure disposed in closest proximity to a point ofintersection between a first notional line collinear with an end edge ofthe at least one panel and a second notional line collinear with a sideedge of the at least one panel.

Optionally, the point of intersection is a notional corner of the atleast one panel.

Optionally, the cutaway is a T-shaped cut line.

Optionally, the cutaway interrupts the annularly disconnected tabs.

Optionally, the annularly disconnected tabs define a sector of the atleast one article engaging structure disposed adjacent to a corner ofthe at least one panel.

Optionally, the annularly disconnected tabs define a sector of the atleast one article engaging structure disposed proximate to a corner ofthe at least one panel.

A third aspect of the invention provides an article carrier forpackaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises at leastone panel having at least two article engaging structures including afirst article engaging structure and a second article engagingstructure. The first article engaging structure comprises a firstarticle receiving aperture and a first annular series of tabs formedaround the first article receiving aperture. The second article engagingstructure comprises a second article receiving aperture and a secondannular series of tabs formed around the second article receivingaperture. The first annular series of tabs is defined at least in partby first plurality of radial cut lines defining a first cut pattern. Thesecond annular series of tabs is defined at least in part by a secondplurality of radial cut lines defining a second cut pattern. The firstcut pattern is rotated about its centre through a first angle withrespect to the second cut pattern.

Optionally, the first annular series of tabs is defined at least in partby plurality of circumferential cut lines, and the first plurality ofradial cut lines comprises at least one radial cut line extending to acorresponding circumferential cut line to be contiguous therewith and atleast one further radial cut line spaced apart from a respectivecircumferential cut line.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an articlecarrier. The blank comprises at least one panel having at least onearticle engaging structure. The at least one article engaging structurecomprises an article receiving aperture and an annular series of tabsformed around the article receiving aperture. The annular series of tabsis defined at least in part by plurality of radial cut lines. Theannular series of tabs is defined at least in part by plurality ofcircumferential cut lines. At least a first one of the radial cut linesextends to a corresponding circumferential cut line and at least asecond one of the radial cut lines stops short of a respectivecircumferential cut line.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an articlecarrier. The blank comprises at least one panel having at least onearticle engaging structure. The at least one article engaging structurecomprises an article receiving aperture and an annular series of tabsformed around the article receiving aperture. The annular series of tabscomprises a plurality of annularly connected tabs and a plurality ofannularly disconnected tabs.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an articlecarrier. The blank comprises at least one panel having at least twoarticle engaging structures including a first article engaging structurecomprising and a second article engaging structure. The first articleengaging structure comprises a first article receiving aperture and afirst annular series of tabs formed around the first article receivingaperture. The second article engaging structure comprises a secondarticle receiving aperture and a second annular series of tabs formedaround the second article receiving aperture. The first annular seriesof tabs is defined at least in part by first plurality of radial cutlines defining a first cut pattern. The second annular series of tabs isdefined at least in part by a second plurality of radial cut linesdefining a second cut pattern. The first cut pattern is rotated aboutits centre through a first angle with respect to the second cut pattern.

A seventh aspect of the invention provides an article carrier forpackaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises at leastone panel having at least one article engaging structure.

The at least one article engaging structure comprises an articlereceiving aperture and an annular series of tabs formed around thearticle receiving aperture. The annular series of tabs is defined atleast in part by plurality of radial cut lines. The annular series oftabs is defined at least in part by plurality of circumferential cutlines. At least a first one of the radial cut lines extends to acorresponding circumferential cut line and at least a second one of theradial cut lines is spaced apart from a respective circumferential cutline.

An eighth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming anarticle carrier. The blank comprises at least one panel having at leastone article engaging structure. The at least one article engagingstructure comprises an article receiving aperture and an annular seriesof tabs formed around the article receiving aperture. The annular seriesof tabs is defined at least in part by plurality of radial cut lines.The annular series of tabs is defined at least in part by plurality ofcircumferential cut lines. At least a first one of the radial cut linesextends to a corresponding circumferential cut line and at least asecond one of the radial cut lines is spaced apart from a respectivecircumferential cut line.

Within the scope of this application it is envisaged or intended thatthe various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternativesset out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in thefollowing description and drawings may be considered or takenindependently or in any combination thereof.

Features or elements described in connection with, or relation to, oneembodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is anincompatibility of features. One or more features or elements from oneembodiment may be incorporated into, or combined with, any of the otherembodiments disclosed herein, said features or elements extracted fromsaid one embodiment may be included in addition to, or in replacement ofone or more features or elements of said other embodiment.

A feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment disclosed hereinmay be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment.Alternatively, a feature, or combination of features, of an embodimentmay be omitted from that embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an articlecarrier according to a first embodiment;

FIG. 1A is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view from above of an article carrier formedfrom the blank of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an articlecarrier according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 3A is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 3 ;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view from above of an article carrier formedfrom the blank of FIG. 3 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the packages, blanksand carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that thedisclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certainaspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent anexhaustive list of all of the ways the invention may be embodied. Asused herein, the word “exemplary” is used expansively to refer toembodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns.Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks and carriersdescribed herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. TheFigures are not necessarily to scale and some features may beexaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components.Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarilydescribed in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the presentdisclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosedherein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis forthe claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in theart to variously employ the invention.

Referring to FIG. 1 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 which iscapable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in FIG. 2 . Thecarrier 90 is suitable for containing and carrying a group of primaryproducts such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafterreferred to as articles B. The blank 10 forms a secondary package 90that packages at least one primary product container B. An alternativeblank 110 is shown in FIG. 3 for forming an alternative carton orcarrier 190 shown in FIG. 4 .

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier”refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various featuresof the invention, to a container for engaging and carrying articles,such as primary product containers (articles B). It is contemplated thatthe teachings of the invention can be applied to various productcontainers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical.Exemplary containers may include bottles (for example metallic, glass orplastics bottles), cans (for example aluminum cans), tins, pouches,packets and the like.

The blanks 10; 110 are formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It isto be understood that, as used herein, the term “suitable substrate”includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard,corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and thelike. It should be recognized that one or other numbers of blanks may beemployed, where suitable, for example, to provide the carrier structure90; 190 described in more detail below.

The packaging structures or cartons 90; 190, described herein, may beformed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which may be made of orcoated with materials to increase its strength. An example of such asheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRockCompany. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may beprovided by more than one layer, to help improve the tear-resistance ofthe package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may havedifferent characteristics to the other surface. For example, the surfaceof the sheet material that faces outwardly from a finished package maybe particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating orother surface treatment to provide good printability. The surface of thesheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be providedwith a coating, a layer, a treatment or be otherwise prepared to provideproperties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability,heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

In the illustrated embodiments, the blanks 10; 110 are configured toform a carton or carrier 90; 190 for packaging an exemplary arrangementof exemplary articles B. In the embodiments illustrated, the arrangementis a 4×2 matrix or array. In the illustrated embodiments four rows oftwo articles are provided, and the articles B are beverage cans.Alternatively, the blanks 10; 110 can be configured to form a carrierfor packaging other types, number and size of articles and/or forpackaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration.

FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment and shows the blank 10 for formingthe article carrier 90 shown in FIG. 2 . The carrier 90 takes the formof a top gripping clip. The article carrier 90 comprises openingsconfigured to receive the articles B. The openings are arranged toaccommodate a neck or upper portion of an article B, above a main bodyand/or shoulders of the article B.

The blank 10 comprises a main or engaging panel 12. The main panel 12 ofthe blank 10 includes at least one article retention structure RT1, RT2.The main panel 12 comprises a plurality of article retention structuresRT1, RT2, specifically eight article retention structures RT1, RT2arranged in 2×4 matrix or array. Each of the article retentionstructures RT1, RT2 comprises an article receiving aperture AP1, AP2about which a plurality of teeth or tabs 14, 30 may be disposed. Each ofthe teeth 14, 30 is struck from the engaging panel 12 and is hingedlyconnected thereto. Each tooth 14, 30 may be defined, in part, by a pairof cut lines 15, 31. The cut lines 15, 31 extend radially outward from acentre of the article receiving aperture AP1, AP2. The teeth or tabs 14,30 are arranged in an annular series about the article receivingaperture AP1, AP2 to form part of an article receiving opening.

The plurality of teeth 14, 30 are provided by the main panel 12. Each ofthe teeth 14, 30 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12, by a hingedconnection. The hinged connection may be defined by a plurality of cutlines 9, 11. The plurality of cut lines 9, 11 may be arranged as anannular series of cuts about the article receiving aperture AP1, AP2.

The plurality of cut lines 9, 11 may define or approximate a portion ofcircle.

The blank 10 comprises four endmost article retention structures RT1each comprising a first article receiving aperture AP1. The blank 10comprises four medial or intermediate article retention structures RT2each comprising a second article receiving aperture AP2.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprise an articlereceiving opening defined in part by the first article receivingaperture AP1 which is defined in, or struck from, the main panel 12.

The intermediate article retention structures RT2 comprise an articlereceiving opening defined in part by the second article receivingaperture AP2 which is defined in, or struck from, the main panel 12.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprise a first pluralityof teeth or tabs 14, 30 disposed about the first article receivingaperture AP1, best shown in FIG. 1A. Each of the first plurality ofteeth 14, 30 comprises an engaging edge opposing a hinged edge. Theengaging edges are defined by a linear portion of a cut line definingthe first article receiving aperture AP1. Each engaging edge may definea part of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment comprises nineteen teeth14, 30 together defining a substantial portion of hexadecagon. Theendmost article retention structures RT1 comprise eleven full teeth 14and eight half or partial teeth 30. The partial teeth 30 occupy asmaller circumferential region of the article receiving opening than thefull teeth 14. Each full tooth 14 comprises a pair of side edges, theside edges are defined by cuts 15 extending radially outward fromrespective vertices of the hexadecagon forming the first articlereceiving aperture AP1, that is to say, from a respective vertex betweena pair of adjacent linear portions of the cut defining the portion of ahexadecagon. The cuts 15 are divergently arranged with respect to eachother and define an angle therebetween, the angle may be about 22.5°.Each partial tooth 30 comprises a pair of side edges, the side edges aredefined by cuts 31 extending radially outward from the first articlereceiving aperture AP1. The cuts 31 are divergently arranged withrespect to each other and define an angle therebetween, the angle may beabout 11.25°. Adjacently disposed pairs of the partial teeth 30 define alinear portion of the cut defining the portion of a hexadecagon, that isto say the engaging edges of each of the pairs of partial teeth 30 arecollinear.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprise a plurality offirst circumferential cut lines 9. Each of the plurality of firstcircumferential cut lines 9 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines15, 31 such that said one of the radial cut lines 15, 31 or a notionalextension thereof bisects a respective one of the plurality of firstcircumferential cut lines 9.

Each of the radial cut lines 15 defining a full tooth 14 is spaced apartfrom a corresponding one of the plurality of first circumferential cutlines 9. Each radial cut line 15 is arranged with respect to one of theplurality of first circumferential cut lines 9 so as to bisect firstcircumferential cut lines 9. In this way a connecting nick or bridgeportion is provided between a pair of adjacently disposed full teeth 14.The radial cut lines 15 and first circumferential cut lines 9 definedisconnected T-shaped cuts.

Each of the radial cut lines 31 defining a partial tooth 30 is connectedto, or contiguous with, a corresponding one of the plurality of firstcircumferential cut lines 9. Each radial cut line 31 is arranged withrespect to one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9 soas to bisect first circumferential cut lines 9. In this way each partialtooth 30 is disconnected from the adjacently disposed teeth 14, 30. Theradial cut lines 31 and first circumferential cut lines 9 defineconnected T-shaped cuts.

Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9 may be linearin shape.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprise a plurality ofsecond circumferential cut lines 11. Each of the plurality of secondcircumferential cut lines 11 is disposed between a pair of the pluralityof first circumferential cut lines 9 and is spaced apart therefrom so asto define a pair of connecting nick or bridge portions between each fulltooth 14 and the main panel 12. The pair of connecting nick or bridgeportions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each full tooth14 and the main panel 12.

Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 11 may belinear in shape.

The partial teeth 30 are connected to the main panel 12 by a hinged orfoldable connection between formed by a connecting nick or bridgeportion provided between an adjacent pair of the plurality of firstcircumferential cut lines 9.

In alternative embodiments each of the plurality of firstcircumferential cut lines 9 may be arcuate or curved. In alternativeembodiments each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 11may be arcuate or curved.

The plurality of teeth 14, 30 is interrupted by a first recess orcutaway R. The first recess R lies upon a first notional line n-n. Firstnotional line n-n extends radially from the centre C of the aperturesAP1 and passes through a notional corner of the main panel 12.

The first recess R may be dimensioned to be equivalent to a pair ofpartial teeth 30, and is centered upon the first notional line n-n. Inalternative embodiments the first recess R may be replaced with a pairof partial teeth 30 separated by a radial cut line 31 lying upon thefirst notional line n-n, to form a connected T-cut with a firstcircumferential cut line 9.

The partial teeth 30 and first recess R define a first or minor arc. Thefull teeth extend about or occupy a second or major arc. The minor arcdefines a sector which subtends a first angle θ. The first angle θ maybe about 112.5° or equivalent to five full teeth 14 or ten partial teeth30.

The intermediate article retention structures RT2 comprise a secondplurality of teeth or tabs 14 disposed about the second articlereceiving aperture AP2.

Each of the second plurality of teeth 14 comprises an engaging edgeopposing a hinged edge. The engaging edges are defined by a linearportion of a cut line defining the second article receiving apertureAP2. Each engaging edge may define a part of a polygon. The illustratedembodiment comprises sixteen full teeth 14 together defining ahexadecagon. Each full tooth 14 comprises a pair of side edges, the sideedges are defined by cuts 15 extending radially outward from respectivevertices of the hexadecagon forming the second article receivingaperture AP2, that is to say, from a respective vertex between a pair ofadjacent linear portions of the cut defining the portion of ahexadecagon. The cuts 15 are divergently arranged with respect to eachother and define an angle therebetween, the angle may be about 22.5°.

The intermediate article retention structures RT2 comprise a pluralityof first circumferential cut lines 9. Each of the plurality of firstcircumferential cut lines 9 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines15 such that said one of the radial cut lines 15 or a notional extensionthereof bisects a respective one of the plurality of firstcircumferential cut lines 9.

Each of the radial cut lines 15 defining a full tooth 14 is spaced apartfrom a corresponding one of the plurality of first circumferential cutlines 9. In this way a connecting nick or bridge portion is providedbetween pairs of adjacently disposed full teeth 14. The radial cut lines15 and first circumferential cut lines 9 define disconnected T-shapedcuts.

The intermediate article retention structures RT2 comprise a pluralityof second circumferential cut lines 11. Each of the plurality of secondcircumferential cut lines 11 is disposed between a pair of the pluralityof first circumferential cut lines 9 and is spaced apart therefrom so asto define a pair of connecting nick or bridge portions between each fulltooth 14 and the main panel 12. The pair of connecting nick or bridgeportions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each full tooth14 and the main panel 12.

The blank 10 may comprise a handle structure. The handle structurecomprises one, two, three or more handle or finger openings spaced apartfrom each other.

The handle or finger openings are disposed on a longitudinal axisbisecting the engaging panel 12.

A first opening Ha1 is provided between a first group of four articleretention structures RT1, RT2. The first group of four article retentionstructures RT1, RT2 is provided adjacent a first end of the engagingpanel 12. The first opening Ha1 is disposed between a first row ofendmost article retention structures RT1 and a second row ofintermediate article retention structures RT2. The first opening Ha1 islocated at the centre of the first group of four article retentionstructures RT1, RT2.

A second opening Ha2 is provided between a second group of four articleretention structures RT2. The second group of four article retentionstructures RT2 is provided medially of the engaging panel 12. The secondopening Ha2 is disposed between the second row of intermediate articleretention structures RT2 and a third row of intermediate articleretention structures RT2. The second opening Ha2 is located at thecentre C of the second group of four article retention structures RT2.

A third opening Ha3 is provided between a third group of four articleretention structures RT1, RT2. The third group of four article retentionstructures RT1, RT2 is provided adjacent a second end of the engagingpanel 12. The third opening Ha3 is disposed between the third row ofintermediate article retention structures RT2 and a fourth row ofendmost article retention structures RT1. The third opening Ha3 islocated at the centre of the third group of four article retentionstructures RT1, RT2.

The first, second and third openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 lie, at least inpart, between a first column of article retention structures RT1, RT2and a second column of article retention structures RT1, RT2.

Each of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 is defined by a plurality oftabs 16, 18, 20, 22. The first and second handle openings Ha1, Ha2 aresubstantially similar in construction to each other. The third handleopening Ha3 is substantially similar in construction to the first andsecond handle openings Ha1, Ha2 albeit a mirror image thereof. Thehandle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 will be described in further detail byreference to the second handle opening Ha2 shown in FIG. 1A.

Each handle opening Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 comprises four tabs 16, 18, 20, 22.Each tab 16, 18, 20, 22 is hinged to the engaging panel 12 by a hingedconnection in the form of a fold line 17, 19, 21, 23. An arcuate orcurvilinear cut line 31, 33, 35, 37 may be provided between each foldline 17, 19, 21, 23 to define a corner or vertex of the handle openingsHa1, Ha2, Ha3. Each of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 issubstantially rhombus or diamond shaped, in other embodiments othershapes may be employed such as, but not limited to square. Each handleopening Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 comprises a pair of major tabs 16, 18 and a pairof minor tabs 20, 22.

A first major tab 16 is separated from a second major tab 18 by a firstcut line or severable line 25. A first minor tab 20 is separated from asecond minor tab 22 by the first cut line or severable line 25.

The first and second minor tabs 20, 22 are separated from the first andsecond major tabs 16, 18 by a second cut line or severable line 27.

The first cut line 25 is colinear with a notional line passing thoughthe centre C of the group of four intermediate article retentionstructures RT2.

The first cut line 25 may be linear in shape and may extend between afirst pair of opposed vertices of the handle opening Ha1, Ha2, Ha3.

The second cut line 27 may be non-linear in shape and may extend betweena second pair of opposed vertices of the handle opening Ha1, Ha2, Ha3.The second cut line 27 intersects the first cutline 25, the second cutline 27 comprises an inverted “V” shaped medial portion; a vertex of the“V” shaped portion intersects the first cutline 25.

The first major tab 16 is hinged to the engaging panel 12 by a firstfold line 17. The second major tab 18 is hinged to the engaging panel 12by a second fold line 19.

The first minor tab 20 is hinged to the engaging panel 12 by a thirdfold line 21. The second minor tab 22 is hinged to the engaging panel 12by a fourth fold line 23.

The first fold line 17 is divergently arranged with respect to thesecond fold line 19.

The first fold line 17 is divergently arranged with respect to the thirdfold line 21.

The second fold line 19 is divergently arranged with respect to thefourth fold line 23.

The third fold line 21 is divergently arranged with respect to thefourth fold line 23.

Optionally, the blank 10 comprises a first recess or cutaway R1 struckfrom a first side edge (see FIG. 1 ). The first finger recess or cutawayR1 lies upon a notional line extending laterally of the blank 10 andbisecting the blank 10. In this way the first finger recess or cutawayR1 lies between the second and third rows of article retentionstructures RT1.

Optionally, the blank 10 comprises a second finger recess or cutaway R2struck from a second side edge. The second side edge opposes the firstside edge. The second finger recess or cutaway R2 lies upon a notionalline extending laterally of the blank 10 and bisecting the blank 10. Inthis way the second finger recess or cutaway R2 lies between the secondand third rows of article retention structures RT1.

The second handle opening Ha2 is collinear with the first and secondfinger recesses R1, R2.

The blank 10 forms a carrier 90, the blank 10 is lowered with respect toa group of articles B. Each opening of the retention structures RT1, RT2receives one of the articles B forming the group. An end closure orupper end of the articles B passes through the openings. The tabs 14, 30fold out of the plane of the engaging panel 12. The tabs 14, 30 foldupwardly, the tabs 14, 30 engage an article B below a flange orprojection extending radially outward from the neck of the article B.The tabs 14, 30 support the article B and inhibit movement or withdrawalof the article B from the opening, best shown in FIG. 2 .

The first recess R has the benefit of reducing deformation of a cornerregion 12C of the main panel 12. The connected T-cuts provided by theradial cut lines 31 and first circumferential cut lines 9 reduce stressin the corner region 12C of the main panel 12. The absence of connectingportions between the partial teeth 30 has been found to reduce thelikelihood of tear propagation in the main panel 12.

The connecting nicks between full teeth 14 may increase the security ofthe article B within the article receiving structure RT1, and mayincrease biasing of the tabs 14 against the article B so as to improvearticle retention.

Referring now to FIGS. 3, 3A, and 4 , there is shown an additionalembodiment of the present disclosure. In the second illustratedembodiment like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote likeparts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100” to indicate thatthese features belong to the second embodiment. The additionalembodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment andtherefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.1 and 2 will be described in detail.

FIG. 3 illustrates a second embodiment and shows a blank 110 for formingan article carrier 190 shown in FIG. 4 .

The blank 110 comprises an engaging panel 112. The engaging panel 112 ofthe blank 110 includes at least one article retention structure RT1,RT2, each retention structure RT1, RT2 provides an article receivingaperture AP1, AP2 for receiving a respective article. The engaging panel112 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT1, RT2,specifically eight article retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in 2×4matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2comprises an opening or aperture AP1, AP2 about which a plurality ofteeth or tabs 114 may be disposed. Each of the teeth 114 is struck fromthe engaging panel 112 and is hingedly connected thereto. Each tooth 114may be defined, in part, by a pair of cut lines 115. The cut lines 115extend radially outward from a centre of the article receiving apertureAP1, AP2. The teeth or tabs 114 are arranged in an annular series aboutthe article receiving aperture AP1, AP2 to form part of an articlereceiving opening.

The plurality of teeth 114 are provided by the engaging panel 112. Eachof the teeth 114 is hingedly connected to the engaging panel 112, by ahinged connection. The hinged connection may be defined by a pluralityof cut lines 109, 111. The plurality of cut lines 109, 111 may bearranged as an annular series of cuts about the article receivingaperture AP1, AP2.

The plurality of cut lines 109, 111 may define or approximate a portionof circle.

The blank 110 comprises four endmost article retention structures RT1each comprising a first article receiving aperture AP1. The blank 110comprises four medial or intermediate article retention structures RT2each comprising a second article receiving aperture AP2.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprise an articlereceiving opening defined in part by the first article receivingaperture AP1 which is defined in, or struck from, the engaging panel112.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprise a first pluralityof teeth or tabs 114 disposed about the first article receiving apertureAP1, best shown in FIG. 3A. Each of the first plurality of teeth 114comprises an engaging edge opposing a hinged edge. The engaging edgesare defined by a linear portion of a cut line defining the first articlereceiving aperture AP1. Each engaging edge may define a part of apolygon. The illustrated embodiment comprises sixteen teeth 114 togetherdefining a hexadecagon. Each tooth 114 comprises a pair of side edges,the side edges are defined by cuts 115, 131 extending radially outwardfrom respective vertices of the hexadecagon forming the first articlereceiving aperture AP1, that is to say, from a respective vertex betweena pair of adjacent linear portions of the cut defining the portion of ahexadecagon. The cuts 115, 131 are divergently arranged with respect toeach other and define an angle therebetween, the angle may be about22.5°.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprise a plurality offirst circumferential cut lines 109. Each of the plurality of firstcircumferential cut lines 109 is aligned with one of the radial cutlines 115, 131. The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprisefirst radial cut lines 115 and second radial cut lines 131. Each of thesecond radial cut lines 131 is connected to, or contiguous with, acorresponding one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines109. Each of the second radial cut lines 131 bisects and intersects witha respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines109. A notional extension of each of the first radial cut lines 115bisects a respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cutlines 109.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprise five second radialcut lines 131 each defining at least in part one of four annularlydisconnected teeth 114A.

Each of the first radial cut lines 115 is spaced apart from acorresponding one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines109. In this way a connecting nick or bridge portion is provided betweena pair of adjacently disposed full teeth 114. The first radial cut lines115 and respective first circumferential cut lines 109 definedisconnected T-shaped cuts.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprise eleven firstradial cut lines 115 each defining at least in part one of twelveannularly connected teeth 114.

The second radial cut lines 131 and respective first circumferential cutlines 109 define connected T-shaped cuts.

Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 109 may belinear or arcuate in shape.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprise a plurality ofsecond circumferential cut lines 111. Each of the plurality of secondcircumferential cut lines 111 is disposed between a pair of theplurality of first circumferential cut lines 109 and is spaced aparttherefrom so as to define a pair of connecting nick or bridge portionsbetween each full tooth 114 and the engaging panel 112. The pair ofconnecting nick or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldableconnection between each full tooth 114 and the engaging panel 112.

Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 111 may belinear or arcuate in shape.

The first recess or cutaway R of the embodiment of FIG. 1 has beenomitted, the first article receiving aperture AP1 is surrounded by teeth114, 114A.

The arrangement of teeth 114, 114A, the cut pattern of radial cut lines115, 131, has been rotated about the centre of the first articlereceiving aperture AP1 with respect to the arrangement of teeth 114, thecut pattern of radial cut lines 115, about the second article receivingaperture AP2 of the intermediate article retention structures RT2, bestillustrated in FIG. 3A. The endmost article retention structures RT1 arerotated through an angle β with respect to intermediate articleretention structures RT2. The angle of rotation p may be about 11.25° orequivalent to half a tooth 114.

One of the second radial cut lines 131 lies upon a notional line n-npassing through the centre C of the first article receiving aperture AP1and through a real, or notional, corner of the engaging panel 112—thereal or notional corner being defined by the intersection of a pair ofnotional lines collinear with a respective one of the end and side edgesof the main panel 112.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprises a first secondradial cut line 131 which lies upon a notional line y-y extendinglongitudinally of the blank 110; said first second radial cut line 131is oriented perpendicular with respect to an end edge of the engagingpanel 112 and is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the engaging panel112.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprises a second secondradial cut line 131 which lies upon a notional line x-x extendingtransversely of the blank 110; said second second radial cut line 131 isoriented perpendicular with respect to a side edge of the engaging panel112 and is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the engaging panel112.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprises a first radialcut line 115 which lies upon the notional line y-y extendinglongitudinally of the blank 110; said first radial cut line 115 liesupon a notional radial line extending from the centre of the secondarticle receiving aperture AP2 of the adjacent intermediate articleretention structures RT2. The notional radial line extends through thecentre or middle of one of the teeth 114 surrounding the second articlereceiving aperture AP2.

The annularly disconnected teeth 114A define a first or minor arc. Theannularly connected teeth 114 extend about or occupy a second or majorarc. The minor arc defines a sector which subtends a first angle θ. Thefirst angle θ may be about 90° or equivalent to four teeth 114A.

The intermediate article retention structures RT2 comprise a secondplurality of teeth or tabs 114 disposed about the second articlereceiving aperture AP2.

Each of the second plurality of teeth 114 comprises an engaging edgeopposing a hinged edge. The engaging edges are defined by a linearportion of a cut line defining the second article receiving apertureAP2. Each engaging edge may define a part of a polygon. The illustratedembodiment comprises sixteen teeth 114 together defining a hexadecagon.Each tooth 114 comprises a pair of side edges, the side edges aredefined by cuts 115 extending radially outward from respective verticesof the hexadecagon forming the second article receiving aperture AP2,that is to say, from a respective vertex between a pair of adjacentlinear portions of the cut defining the portion of a hexadecagon. Thecuts 115 are divergently arranged with respect to each other and definean angle therebetween, the angle may be about 22.5°.

The intermediate article retention structures RT2 comprise a pluralityof first circumferential cut lines 109. Each of the plurality of firstcircumferential cut lines 109 is aligned with one of the radial cutlines 115 such that said one of the radial cut lines 115 or a notionalextension thereof bisects a respective one of the plurality of firstcircumferential cut lines 109.

Each of the radial cut lines 115 defining a tooth 114 is spaced apartfrom a corresponding one of the plurality of first circumferential cutlines 109. In this way a connecting nick or bridge portion is providedbetween pairs of adjacently disposed full teeth 114. The radial cutlines 115 and first circumferential cut lines 109 define disconnectedT-shaped cuts.

The intermediate article retention structures RT2 comprise a pluralityof second circumferential cut lines 111. Each of the plurality of secondcircumferential cut lines 111 is disposed between a pair of theplurality of first circumferential cut lines 109 and is spaced aparttherefrom so as to define a pair of connecting nick or bridge portionsbetween each full tooth 114 and the engaging panel 112. The pair ofconnecting nick or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldableconnection between each full tooth 114 and the engaging panel 112.

The present disclosure provides a carrier 90; 190, and a blank 10; 110for forming the carrier 90; 190, having a main panel 12; 112 withopenings for receiving at least one article B. The main panel 12; 112may comprise a handle structure.

The present disclosure provides a blank 10; 110 for forming an articlecarrier 90; 190 of the top engaging type. The blank 10; 110 or articlecarrier 90; 190 comprises at least one panel 12; 112 having at least onearticle engaging structure RT1, RT2. The at least one article engagingstructure RT1, RT2 comprises an article receiving aperture AP1, AP2 andan annular series of tabs 14, 30; 114, 114A formed around the articlereceiving aperture AP1, AP2. The annular series of tabs 14, 30; 114,114A is defined at least in part by plurality of radial cut lines 15,31; 115, 131. The annular series of tabs 14, 30; 114, 114A is defined atleast in part by plurality of circumferential cut lines 9, 11; 109, 111.At least a first one 31, 131 of the radial cut lines extends to acorresponding circumferential cut line 9, 109 and at least a second one15; 115 of the radial cut lines stops short of a respectivecircumferential cut line 9, 109.

Optionally, the at least one article receiving aperture AP1 may be acorner aperture, and the at least first one of the radial cut lines 131may be positioned across from the respective corner of the at least onepanel 12; 112 such that the at least first one of the radial cut lines131 extends from the corner aperture toward the corner.

Optionally, the at least one article receiving aperture AP1 may be acorner aperture, and at least two of the annular series of tabs 30 maybe separated by a toothless or tabless area or recess R. The at leastfirst one 31 of the radial cut lines may define part of at least one ofthe at least two of the annular series of tabs 30. The tabless area orrecess R may be positioned across from the respective corner of the atleast one panel 12; 112.

The at least two of the annular series of tabs 30 each may have a widthdimension which is less than a width dimension of at least another oneof the annular series of tabs 14.

The at least first one of the radial cut lines 31 may define part ofeach of at least two of the annular series of tabs 30, at least one ofthe at least two of the annular series of tabs 30 may have a widthdimension which is less than a width dimension of at least another oneof the annular series of tabs 14.

The present disclosure provides a blank 10; 110 for forming an articlecarrier 90; 190 of the top engaging type. The blank 10; 110 or articlecarrier 90; 190 comprises at least one panel 12; 112 having at least onearticle engaging structure RT1, RT2. The at least one article engagingstructure RT1, RT2 comprises an article receiving aperture AP1, AP2 andan annular series of tabs 14, 30; 114, 114A formed around the articlereceiving aperture AP1, AP2. The annular series of tabs 14, 30; 114,114A comprises a plurality of annularly connected tabs 14; 114 and aplurality of annularly disconnected tabs 30; 114A.

Optionally, the annularly disconnected tabs 30 may be partial or halftabs 30, that is to say each annularly disconnected tab 30 occupies asmaller portion of the circumference of the at least one articleengaging structure RT1 than a portion of the circumference of the atleast one article engaging structure RT1 occupied by one of theannularly connected tabs 14; 114.

Optionally, an engaging edge of a first one of the partial or half tabs30 is colinear with an engaging edge of a second adjacent one of thepartial or half tabs 30.

Optionally, the partial or half tabs 30 are arranged in pairs, eachpartial or half tab 30 of a pair comprising an engaging edge arrangedcollinearly with an engaging edge of the other one of the pair. Thepartial tabs 30 may be dimensioned such that an integer number ofpartial tabs 30 is equivalent to an integer number of annularlyconnected tabs 14; 114.

Optionally, the annular series of tabs 14, 30; 114, 114A is interruptedby a cutaway or recess R. The cutaway or recess R occupies a portion ofthe circumference of the at least one article engaging structure RT1disposed in closest proximity to a point of intersection or vertexbetween a first notional line collinear with an end edge of the at leastone panel 12; 112 and a second notional line collinear with a side edgeof the at least one panel 12; 112. The point of intersection being areal or notional corner of the at least one panel 12; 112. The cutawaymay be a T-shaped cut line.

The cutaway or recess R may interrupt the annularly disconnected tabs30.

The annularly disconnected tabs 30 may define a sector or quadrant ofthe at least one article engaging structure RT1 disposed adjacent, orproximate, to the real or notional corner of the at least one panel 12;112.

The present disclosure provides a blank 10 for forming an articlecarrier 90 of the top engaging type, the blank 110 or article carrier190 comprises at least one panel 112 having at least two articleengaging structures RT1, RT2. A first one of the at least two articleengaging structure RT1, RT2 comprises a first article receiving apertureAP1 and a first annular series of tabs 114, 114A formed around the firstarticle receiving aperture AP1. A second one of the at least two articleengaging structure RT2 comprises a second article receiving aperture AP2and a second annular series of tabs 114 formed around the second articlereceiving aperture AP2.

The first annular series of tabs 114, 114A is defined at least in partby first plurality of radial cut lines 115, 131 defining a first cutpattern. The second annular series of tabs 114 is defined at least inpart by a second plurality of radial cut lines 115 defining a second cutpattern. The first cut pattern is rotated about its centre through afirst angle with respect to the second cut pattern. The first annularseries of tabs 114, 114A may be defined at least in part by plurality ofcircumferential cut lines 9, 11; 109, 111. The first plurality of radialcut lines 115, 131 may comprise at least one radial cut line extendingto a corresponding circumferential cut line 9, 109 to be contiguoustherewith and at least another one of the first plurality of radial cutlines 115, 131 stops short of, or is spaced apart from, a respectivecircumferential cut line 9, 109.

It will be recognized that as used herein, directional references suchas “top”, “bottom”, “base”, “front”, “back”, “end”, “side”, “inner”,“outer”, “upper” and “lower” do not necessarily limit the respectivepanels to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish thesepanels from one another.

As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” refer toall manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitatefolding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwiseindicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. Any reference to“hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring toa single fold line only; indeed, a hinged connection can be formed fromtwo or more fold lines wherein each of the two or more fold lines may beeither straight/linear or curved/curvilinear in shape. When linear foldlines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with eachother or be slightly angled with respect to each other. When curvilinearfold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other todefine a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear foldlines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pairof arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such thatthey define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinged connection may beformed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinearfold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise acombination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold linewhich intersect at two points such that they define a half moon-shapedpanel therebetween.

As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to one of the following:a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line ofperforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a singlehalf-cut, an interrupted cutline, a line of aligned slits, a line ofscores and any combination of the aforesaid options.

It should be understood that hinged connections and fold lines can eachinclude elements that are formed in the substrate of the blank includingperforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line ofhalf-cuts, a single half-cut, a cutline, an interrupted cutline, slits,scores, embossed lines, debossed lines, any combination thereof, and thelike. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide thedesired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can bedimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold lineand/or a severance line. The line of perforations can be designed tofacilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding andfacilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking withlittle effort.

The phrase “in registry with” as used herein refers to the alignment oftwo or more elements in an erected carton, such as an aperture formed ina first of two overlapping panels and a second aperture formed in asecond of two overlapping panels. Those elements in registry with eachother may be aligned with each other in the direction of the thicknessof the overlapping panels. For example, when an aperture in a firstpanel is “in registry with” a second aperture in a second panel that isplaced in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge ofthe aperture may extend along at least a portion of an edge of thesecond aperture and may be aligned, in the direction of the thickness ofthe first and second panels, with the second aperture.

1. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, the articlecarrier comprising at least one panel having at least one articleengaging structure, the at least one article engaging structurecomprising an article receiving aperture and an annular series of tabsformed around the article receiving aperture, the annular series of tabsbeing defined at least in part by plurality of radial cut lines, theannular series of tabs being defined at least in part by plurality ofcircumferential cut lines, wherein at least a first one of the radialcut lines extends to a corresponding circumferential cut line and atleast a second one of the radial cut lines stops short of a respectivecircumferential cut line.
 2. An article carrier according to claim 1wherein the at least one article receiving aperture is a corneraperture, and the at least first one of the radial cut lines ispositioned across from the respective corner of the at least one panelsuch that the at least first one of the radial cut lines extends fromthe corner aperture toward the corner.
 3. An article carrier accordingto claim 1 wherein the at least one article receiving aperture is acorner aperture, and at least two of the annular series of tabs areseparated by a tabless area, the at least first one of the radial cutlines defines part of at least one of the at least two of the annularseries of tabs.
 4. An article carrier according to claim 3 wherein thetabless area is positioned across from the respective corner of the atleast one panel.
 5. An article carrier according to claim 3 wherein theat least two of the annular series of tabs each have a width dimensionwhich is less than a width dimension of at least another one of theannular series of tabs.
 6. An article carrier according to claim 3wherein the at least first one of the radial cut lines defines part ofeach of at least two of the annular series of tabs, at least one of theat least two of the annular series of tabs has a width dimension whichis less than a width dimension of at least another one of the annularseries of tabs.
 7. An article carrier according to claim 1, wherein theannular series of tabs comprising a plurality of annularly connectedtabs and a plurality of annularly disconnected tabs, the plurality ofannularly connected tabs comprise at least a pair of adjacently disposedtabs which are connected by a bridging portion.
 8. An article carrieraccording to claim 7 wherein the annularly disconnected tabs are partialtabs, wherein each annularly disconnected tab occupies a smaller portionof the circumference of the at least one article engaging structure thana portion of the circumference of the at least one article engagingstructure occupied by one of the annularly connected tabs.
 9. An articlecarrier according to claim 8 wherein an engaging edge of a first one ofthe partial tabs is collinear with an engaging edge of a second adjacentone of the partial tabs.
 10. An article carrier according to claim 8wherein the partial tabs are arranged in pairs, each partial tab of apair comprises an engaging edge arranged collinearly with an engagingedge of the other one of the pair.
 11. An article carrier according toclaim 8 wherein the partial tabs are dimensioned such that an integernumber of partial tabs is equivalent to an integer number of annularlyconnected tabs.
 12. An article carrier according to claim 7 wherein theannular series of tabs is interrupted by a cutaway, the cutaway occupiesa portion of the circumference of the at least one article engagingstructure disposed in closest proximity to a point of intersectionbetween a first notional line collinear with an end edge of the at leastone panel and a second notional line collinear with a side edge of theat least one panel.
 13. (canceled)
 14. (canceled)
 15. (canceled) 16.(canceled)
 17. (canceled)
 18. (canceled)
 19. (canceled)
 20. A blank forforming an article carrier, the blank comprising at least one panelhaving at least one article engaging structure, the at least one articleengaging structure comprising an article receiving aperture and anannular series of tabs formed around the article receiving aperture, theannular series of tabs being defined at least in part by plurality ofradial cut lines, the annular series of tabs being defined at least inpart by plurality of circumferential cut lines, wherein at least a firstone of the radial cut lines extends to a corresponding circumferentialcut line and at least a second one of the radial cut lines stops shortof a respective circumferential cut line.
 21. A blank for forming anarticle carrier, the blank comprising at least one panel having at leastone article engaging structure, the at least one article engagingstructure comprising an article receiving aperture and an annular seriesof tabs formed around the article receiving aperture, the annular seriesof tabs comprising a plurality of annularly connected tabs and aplurality of annularly disconnected tabs, the plurality of annularlyconnected tabs comprise at least a pair of adjacently disposed tabswhich are connected by a bridging portion.
 22. (canceled)
 23. An articlecarrier according to claim 1, wherein the at least a second one of theradial cut lines is spaced apart from a respective circumferential cutline.
 24. A blank according to claim 20, wherein the at least a secondone of the radial cut lines is spaced apart from the respectivecircumferential cut line.
 25. A blank according to claim 20, wherein theat least first one of the radial cut lines is disposed at a positiondiametrically opposed substantially to the at least second one of theradial cut lines.
 26. A blank according to claim 20 wherein the at leastone article receiving aperture is a corner aperture, and the at leastfirst one of the radial cut lines is positioned closer to the respectivecorner of the at least one panel than the at least second one of theradial cut lines.
 27. A blank according to claim 20, wherein the atleast first one of the radial cut lines comprises a pair of adjacentlydisposed first radial cut lines which define in part a first tooth, theat least second one of the radial cut lines comprises a pair ofadjacently disposed second radial cut lines which define in part asecond tooth, and wherein the first tooth is disposed at a positiondiametrically opposed substantially to the second tooth.
 28. A blankaccording to claim 20 wherein the at least one article receivingaperture is a corner aperture, the at least first one of the radial cutlines comprises a pair of adjacently disposed first radial cut lineswhich define in part a first tooth, the at least second one of theradial cut lines comprises a pair of adjacently disposed second radialcut lines which define in part a second tooth, and wherein the firsttooth is positioned closer to the respective corner of the at least onepanel than the second tooth.
 29. A blank according to claim 21, whereinthe bridging portion comprises a nick defined between at least two cutlines.
 30. A blank according to claim 29, wherein the plurality ofannularly connected tabs being defined at least in part by plurality ofradial cut lines, the plurality of annularly connected tabs beingdefined at least in part by plurality of circumferential cut lines, andwherein the at least two cut lines comprise at least one of the radialcut lines and at least one of the circumferential cut lines.